A memorial gateway in the Westville section of New Haven honors local residents who served in the Civil War.
The 1915 monument, at the entrance to the city’s Beecher Park, stands at the corner of Whalley Avenue and Philip Street. Two plaques on the front (northeast) face of the monument bear a dedication reading, “Erected by the Westville Soldiers Memorial Association to commemorate those who enlisted from this place in the War of 1861-1865.”
The plaque on the left pillar (as you face the monument) lists 32 names, and the plaque on the right pillar lists 33 names. The left column also bears the seal of the United States, and the right column bears the Connecticut seal.
Benches extend from the monument’s pillars, and bronze letters embedded in the walkway between the columns read, “Soldiers’ Memorial A.D. 1915.”
The monument was constructed from local traprock, most likely from the West Rock formation that stands just west of the park. The gateway was designed by architect Ferdinand Von Beren, who was also responsible for a number of downtown buildings and New Haven schools.
Tags: New Haven